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Cincinnati sun could be an issue in Game 3

Cincinnati sun could be an issue in Game 3

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Drew Stubbs

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CINCINNATI -- Not only will the Reds be battling a Giants club fighting for its life in Game 3 of the National League Division Series on Tuesday, but they'll also facing another foe that could potentially cause a stir -- the bright Cincinnati sun.

Nightfall arrives, on average, at 7:09 p.m. ET in Cincinnati. So with the first pitch slated for 5:30, the setting sun will likely be peeking just over the roof of Great American Ball Park at game time, continuing to radiate through the windows of the upper levels in the early innings.

The Reds have had zero games scheduled in the five-o'clock hour at home this season, and have played just four five contests that weren't definitively day or night games. They are 4-1 in those contests, but still feel the glaring sunlight could make an impact on Tuesday.

"Everybody is affected in some form," said Reds center fielder Drew Stubbs. "As a hitter, it's tough with the shadows trying to see the ball. In the outfield, being bright out there looking in to the shadows, it can be tough. It's a tough atmosphere for everybody involved."

Cincinnati has also committed just one error in those mid-afternoon games -- charged to third baseman Scott Rolen on Opening Day. Luckily for the Reds, their starting outfielders committed a combined total of just 12 errors in the regular season, and none so far in the postseason.